From October 3–5, 2025, the city of Örebro became the stage for a historic moment for the Syriac-Aramean people.
Representatives from around the world – leaders, youth organizations, church officials, and community advocates – gathered under the banners
“A STARTING POINT FOR THE FUTURE”
“PRESERVING IDENTITY, BUILDING UNITY”
to shape a common path forward.
The weekend resulted in the adoption of a global declaration with a shared vision and action plan for the future – a document symbolizing unity, responsibility, and hope.
A Milestone for the Syriac-Aramean Movement
The conference was organized by the Syriac Federation of Sweden (SRF) in cooperation with the Syriac Aramean Youth Federation (SAUF) and with strong support from the Syriac Orthodox Church in Sweden.
More than 84 participants representing 19 organizations attended, and 17 of them signed the Global Syriac-Aramean Declaration.
The two organizations that did not sign on-site were unable to attend the signing ceremony but have confirmed their intention to sign afterward.
Among the participating organizations were all Syriac national federations in Europe, the World Council of Arameans (WCA), and several Suryoyo SAT boards from across Europe.
In addition, two church organizations participated, including the Syriac Orthodox Church in Sweden, which played a significant role in the discussions and collective work during the weekend.
The declaration establishes the framework for continued efforts to strengthen identity, language, culture, and organization – both in the homelands and throughout the diaspora.
Participants came from 11 different countries, spanning from the Middle East to Europe – all united by one goal: to secure a strong and thriving Syriac-Aramean heritage for future generations.
Leadership, Dialogue, and Engagement
The conference was moderated by Jonathan Varli, with the support of SRF President Habib Dilmac.
Together the delegates created a positive and inspiring atmosphere marked by structure and genuine engagement.
Throughout the weekend, participants were divided into working groups that discussed key questions about how the movement should carry its mission into the future through organizational development, education, and collaboration.
Each group presented its conclusions to all attendees, leading to in-depth discussions and concrete ideas.
These contributions formed the basis of the global declaration and action plan, which was unanimously adopted during the conference.
“This is more than a declaration – it is a promise and a responsibility for the future,”
said Habib Dilmac, President of the Syriac Federation of Sweden.
“We are shaping a path for our people that rests on faith, knowledge, and cooperation.”
The Global Declaration – Vision and Strategic Objectives
At the heart of the conference was the adoption of The Declaration, a document designed to serve as both a compass and an action plan for the years ahead.
Vision
We envision a vibrant global Aramean (Syriac) people — united in identity, faith, language, and culture — that thrives within the societies in which we live, while remaining rooted in our historical heritage and Christian values.
Strategic Objectives
- Language Revitalization – Ensure the transmission of the Aramaic-Syriac language to future generations through education, media, and active daily use.
- Cultural Continuity – Preserve and promote Syriac-Aramean traditions, art, literature, and collective memory, including the remembrance of Sayfo.
- Community Empowerment – Strengthen institutions, leadership, and collaboration across the homelands and the diaspora.
- Digital and Educational Innovation – Utilize modern technology and global networks for learning, communication, and documentation.
- Sustainable Identity – Integrate Syriac-Aramean values and Christian faith into modern civic life, encouraging active participation in the societies in which we live.
- Financial Excellence – Achieve financial independence and professional management across organizations and projects.
Conclusion
Let this declaration serve as both a commitment and a roadmap — from remembrance to revival, from preservation to flourishing. Our ancestors entrusted us with an invaluable legacy; our duty is to ensure it remains alive.
A Weekend Filled with Warmth and Hope
The conference in Örebro was marked by a profound sense of community and pride.
Many participants expressed that this kind of gathering had been needed for a long time.
There was a shared feeling of renewal and strength – an understanding that the future is built when we stand together.
“Our existence rests on faith in our own ability – that we can, and that we do what we can,”
was a message that echoed throughout the weekend.
A special thanks goes to the Syriac Association of Örebro, whose impressive dedication ensured the success of the event – from logistics and technical arrangements to food and hospitality.
Thanks to their effort, the weekend ran smoothly and with genuine warmth.
Appreciation is also extended to all the dedicated members of SRF, SAUF, and the volunteers who, through hard work and commitment, made this historic conference possible.
A New Beginning and the Road Ahead
When the conference concluded on October 5, the atmosphere was filled with both emotion and determination.
Participants knew that this was only the beginning of something much greater.
The Global Declaration will now serve as a guiding framework for future projects, collaborations, and advocacy on behalf of the Syriac-Aramean people worldwide.
The weekend in Örebro became proof of what can be achieved when we come together in faith, hope, and action – a reminder of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going.
This historic weekend also marked the start of a long-term effort.
A working group under the leadership of the Syriac Federation of Sweden has been appointed and will, over the next six months, establish formal structures and practical steps for implementing the declaration’s objectives.
This work will be continuously followed up to ensure that the strategic goals become reality – not merely words on paper.
Gratitude and Faith in the Future
The initiators, through SRF President Habib Dilmac, wish to extend heartfelt thanks via Bahro Suryoyo to all participants – to everyone who, out of love for their people, traveled long distances to plant new seeds for the Syriac-Aramean movement.
It is now up to all of us to nurture those seeds so that they grow and bear good fruit for the entire Syriac-Aramean community.
“Together, we build the future – with faith, responsibility, and love for our people.”
